Long-serving Leicester centre Dan Hipkiss has signed a two-year deal with their Aviva Premiership rivals Bath.

The 28-year-old, who has 13 England caps and played at the 2007 Rugby World Cup, will join former Tigers team-mates Lewis Moody and Sam Vesty at the Rec at the end of the season.

"I have always wanted to try something different, and feel that this is the right time to do that," he said. "I've had a great time with Tigers, but really want to try something new in my career and feel that I will be able to do that with Bath, especially after the good reports from Lewis Moody and Sam Vesty about the club.

"When you think about moving clubs, you look at those with ambition, and you can see there is that in abundance at Bath."

Bath head coach Steve Meehan added: "Dan is clearly a very experienced and skilful player, both of which will make him a valuable addition to our squad.

"He has played a lot of international rugby, and that experience will be great in helping some of our younger players develop, as well as bringing fresh ideas."